"Publius" is a pseudonym used by three authors—Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay—who wrote a series of essays known as the Federalist Papers. These essays were published in 1787 and 1788 to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. The Federalist Papers explain the principles of the Constitution and argue for a strong federal government. They address concerns about the balance of power and the protection of individual rights, aiming to persuade the public and state legislatures of the benefits of the new government framework.